Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern Season 12 Episode 1 Slither, Creep & Crawl

Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern is a popular food and travel show that ventures into different parts of the world to explore local cuisines that range from exotic to downright bizarre. In season 12, episode 1, entitled "Slither, Creep & Crawl," host Andrew Zimmern embarks on a journey through the rugged terrain of Utah in search of some of the most unconventional foods that include a variety of creatures, some of which might make the faint of heart squirm.

Zimmern begins his journey in Salt Lake City, where he visits the Red Iguana, a local restaurant that serves authentic Mexican food. Here he tries the famous mole, which is made from a rich blend of spices, chilies, and chocolate. He also samples a unique drink made from hibiscus flowers called "Agua de Jamaica" before heading off into the wilds of Utah in search of his next meal.

His first stop takes him to the Great Salt Lake, where he meets a group of local anglers who are fishing for carp. Zimmern learns that in Utah, carp is considered a nuisance fish and is often thrown back into the water. However, he discovers that they are perfectly edible and decides to cook them up for his next meal.

Zimmern's journey then takes him to the small town of Kanab, where he meets a local named Gary who specializes in trapping and cooking rattlesnakes. Despite initial hesitation, Zimmern decides to join Gary on a snake hunting expedition. After capturing several snakes, Gary demonstrates the proper way to skin and prepare them for cooking. Zimmern, ever the adventurer, cooks up the snake meat and finds it surprisingly delicious.

Next, Zimmern heads to a remote location in the Utah desert where he meets a family who harvest tarantulas for food. He joins them on a tarantula hunt and learns how to properly handle the venomous creatures. He then cooks them up and finds that they taste similar to crab.

Zimmern's final stop takes him to the heart of Salt Lake City's Chinese community where he samples some of the city's best dim sum. He tries a variety of dishes such as steamed buns, dumplings, and noodles. He even tries a dessert made from bird's nests.

Throughout the episode, Zimmern's fearless spirit and willingness to try anything are on full display. While some of the foods he samples might make viewers squirm, he approaches each dish with an open mind and a sense of curiosity. His travels through Utah uncover not only fascinating culinary traditions but also the beauty of Utah's landscapes and the welcoming nature of its people.

"Slither, Creep & Crawl" is a thrilling and eye-opening start to Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern's 12th season. With each new location, Zimmern offers a unique perspective on the world's cultures and cuisines, encouraging viewers to step outside their comfort zones and explore new flavors and experiences.